Government's GAC Addresses 2,081 User Appeals for a Safer Internet
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New Delhi, Jan 8 (NationPress) In a bid to enhance the grievance redressal framework for a safer internet, the government's Grievance Appellate Committee (GAC) has successfully resolved 2,081 user appeals, offering relief for 980 appeals via 1,214 orders issued, it was disclosed on Wednesday.
The GAC was founded under the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021, reflecting the government's dedication to fostering a safe, trustworthy, and accountable internet.
Since its inception in January 2023, the GAC has provided an online mechanism for resolving disputes for users dissatisfied with the decisions made by intermediaries' grievance officers.
In its second year, the committee has seen an average receipt of over 300 appeals per month, a significant rise compared to its first year, with approximately 10,000 users now registered on the platform.
To support this initiative, the Ministry of Electronics and Information Technology (MeitY) organized a workshop aimed at addressing stakeholder concerns regarding a safer internet. This workshop was attended by GAC members, social media intermediaries, and senior government officials.
The Centre has urged social media intermediaries to respond swiftly to fake content to enhance public trust in the grievance officers.
Furthermore, it was highlighted that GACs must operate effectively to resolve issues quickly, allowing users to navigate the internet safely and confidently.
According to S. Krishnan, Secretary of MeitY, GACs must guarantee a rapid grievance redressal process to address issues efficiently since trust in this mechanism can only be built when complaints are resolved effectively.
He also noted that consistent communication between the appellate authority and the regulatory framework is essential for identifying potential issues and devising effective solutions, ultimately benefiting stakeholders.
Bhuvnesh Kumar, Additional Secretary of MeitY, mentioned that the number of grievances received at the appellate level by the GACs was initially low but has now seen a significant increase, largely due to heightened public awareness.
“As individuals have become more informed about the grievance redressal mechanisms, including the availability of Grievance Officers of the intermediaries and the role of GACs, they are increasingly contacting these platforms for resolution,” he stated.
Currently, three GACs have been established, each consisting of a chairperson and two whole-time members tasked with reviewing and adjudicating grievances, ensuring a fair, transparent, and effective resolution process for appeals.
